Nancy Lammeter, eventually Godfrey’s spouse, is fastidious and neat as well as tolerant of Godfrey’s occasional moods. In her opinion, Eppie would be better off with her biological father as her guardian, as opposed to Silas, and a more comfortable social status. Nancy is set against adoption, and is firm in her opinions and beliefs. Dolly Winthrop is a matronly and motherly woman, who gravitates towards serving and caring for others. She supports Silas’ decision to adopt and raise Eppie, and is his guide and assist when it comes to parenting, as well as a mothering figure to Eppie. Dolly sees the adopted child like any other, and approves of the change Eppie brings about in Silas.